James Arness, a towering figure in Hollywood, etched his name into the annals of television history with his iconic portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon in the timeless Western TV show “Gunsmoke.” Yet, amidst his fame and acclaim, a poignant and lesser-known tragedy befell the legendary actor just months before his own untimely passing. Few are privy to the heart-wrenching tale that unfolded in the shadows of James Arness’ illustrious career—a tale that sheds light on the life and legacy of his lesser-known brother, Peter Graves.
In this exploration, we unravel the intertwined destinies of these two remarkable siblings, delving into their shared history, individual achievements, and the enduring bond that transcended their professional lives. James Arness, born on May 26, 1923, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was an American actor renowned for his portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon in the iconic television series “Gunsmoke.” Spanning two decades, Arness’s portrayal of the steadfast lawman captivated audiences and solidified his status as a television legend.
On the other hand, Peter Graves, born Peter Duesler Aurness on March 18, 1926, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, carved his own path in the landscape of American television. Despite the weight of his famous surname, Graves emerged as a distinguished actor in his own right, best remembered for his portrayal of Jim Phelps in the acclaimed CBS series “Mission: Impossible.” However, his journey to stardom was intertwined with the towering presence of his elder brother, James Arness—a fact that shaped Graves’ career and identity in Hollywood.
The younger sibling of James Arness, Graves was born into a family of Norwegian, German, and English descent, with his father, Rolf Cirkler Aurness, being a businessman, and his mother, Ruth, a journalist. It was Ruth’s family name, Graves, that Peter adopted as his stage name—a tribute to his maternal heritage and a strategic choice to distinguish himself from his elder brother’s rising star in the television series “Gunsmoke.” Despite the shadow cast by his brother’s fame, Graves pursued his passion for acting with determination and resilience.
Before gracing the silver screen, Graves served his country with honor during World War II, enlisting in the United States Army Air Forces. His valor and dedication earned him the rank of corporal, along with prestigious accolades such as the American Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. Following the war’s end, Graves embarked on a journey of academic pursuit, leveraging the G.I. Bill to enroll at the University of Minnesota, where he majored in drama. Summers were spent honing his craft in summer-stock theater, laying the groundwork for his future career in entertainment.
Graves’ acting career burgeoned with a diverse array of roles, spanning over 70 films, television shows, and television movies. While his portrayal of Jim Phelps in “Mission: Impossible” remains his most iconic role, Graves showcased his versatility across various genres, from drama to comedy. His dedication to his craft earned him accolades, including a Golden Globe Award in 1971 for his portrayal of Jim Phelps, as well as nominations for Emmy and Golden Globe awards in subsequent seasons of the show. In 1997, Graves further solidified his legacy with a Primetime Emmy Award for his captivating performance as the host of the informative series “Biography.”
Beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Peter Graves remained grounded in his personal life, embodying the values of family and faith. He shared a devoted marital union with Joan Endress Graves for six decades, raising three daughters—Amanda, Kelly, and Claudia. Despite his professional success, Graves maintained a humble demeanor, often shying away from the trappings of celebrity.
In stark contrast to Peter Graves’ journey, James Arness’ path to stardom was a testament to perseverance and determination. Following his service in the U.S. Army during World War II, Arness ventured into the entertainment industry at the behest of his younger brother. Starting as a radio announcer in Minneapolis, Arness transitioned to acting, making his mark in Hollywood with roles in films such as “The Farmer’s Daughter” and “Wagon Master.”
However, it was Arness’ portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon in “Gunsmoke” that catapulted him to superstardom. The series, which aired for two decades, solidified Arness’ status as a television icon and earned him a place in the hearts of audiences worldwide. Despite his fame, Arness remained a private individual, preferring to let his work speak for itself.
Though the Arness brothers never shared the screen together as actors, their professional paths intersected in other ways, demonstrating a mutual respect and admiration for each other’s talents. Peter Graves’ directorial role in an episode of “Gunsmoke” provided a unique opportunity for collaboration between the brothers, showcasing their professional compatibility and shared commitment to excellence. While their individual journeys in Hollywood were distinct, their shared history and brotherly bond served as guiding lights in their respective careers.
Tragically, the Arness brothers’ final curtain call came within months of each other, marking the end of an era in Hollywood. Peter Graves’ sudden passing on March 14, 2010, just days shy of his 84th birthday, left a void in the entertainment industry, robbing audiences of a beloved actor known for his versatility and charisma. Later on June 3, 2011, James Arness, known to many as Marshal Matt Dillon, followed his younger brother into eternity, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans of “Gunsmoke” and beyond. The departures of two brothers left a profound impact, forever remembered by those who cherished their contributions to the world of entertainment.
